Green Burial
A green burial is a cremation alternative, and a viable alternative to "traditional" burial practices in the United States. It is an earth friendly option when considering burial vs cremation. Many families choose cremation because it's seen as more environmentally friendly than traditional burial. The simplicity of a green burial is in tune with nature and need not be expensive.
What is a Green Burial?
Simple and natural. Green burial, or natural burial, ensure the burial site remains as natural as possible in all respects. Interment of the bodies is done in a biodegradable casket, shroud, or a favorite blanket. No embalming fluid, no concrete vaults.
Why Have a Green Burial?
It is clear that nature has intended that our bodies be reunited with the earth. All organisms that have lived, have died and returned to the soil...only to be recycled into new life. Constant microbial activity in the soil breaks everything down. Nature creates no waste. Everything is recycled. In keeping with your personal values, a natural burial site for you, family, even pets, promotes growth of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers, in turn bringing birds and other wildlife to the area.
Water is not wasted, nor are pesticides and herbicides used in attempts to control nature. Instead, a green cemetery allows nature take it's course. Planting native trees, shrubs and flowers in your loved one's honor promotes habitat restoration. To encourage land preservation, a green cemetery grants a conservation easement for the burial site.Choosing a green burial now relieves your loved ones of the distress that comes in having to make difficult, and often costly, decisions after your passing. Involve your friends and family now, so difficult decisions do not need to be made in a time of grief.
5 Benefits of Holding a Green Burial
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Reduces Harmful Emissions: A traditional burial releases harmful emissions into the atmosphere due to the use of embalming fluid, formaldehyde, and other toxins. Green burials use no chemicals, thus reducing harmful emissions.
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Reduces Landfill Waste: Green burials require no casket or other materials that would end up in a landfill. The decomposition of a body is a natural process that does not harm the environment.
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Preserves Natural Resources: Traditional burials require a large amount of natural resources to produce the coffins or urns used for burial. Green burials require no such resources as the body is placed directly into the soil.
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Saves Money: Green burials often cost less than traditional burials. This can save families money and reduce the financial burden of a death.
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Supports Sustainable Practices: Green burials are a form of sustainable practice that allows for the natural cycles of life and death. This can provide a sense of peace and comfort to those participating in the burial.
